TSA Found Record Number of Firearms in Carry-On Bags in 2015

(WASHINGTON) — Transportation Security Administration officers confiscated 2,653 firearms in carry-on bags at airports across the country in 2015, the TSA said in a statement Thursday.

That’s nearly 20 percent more than the 2,212 firearms discovered in the previous year.

“The transport of firearms by commercial air in carry-on bags represents a threat to the safety and security of air travelers. Through increased training in detection methods, our officers are becoming more adept at intercepting these prohibited items,” said TSA administrator Peter V. Neffenger. “I am proud of the men and women who serve in the TSA and grateful for their hard work in the past year.”

Last year, TSA said it continued to enhance security protocols through various methods, including upgrading to state-of-the-art technologies and improving passenger identification techniques.

The agency listed the following airports that had the most firearm discoveries in 2015:

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport: 153

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport: 144

Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport: 100

Denver International Airport: 90

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport: 73

The TSA advises passengers who wish to travel with firearms to familiarize themselves with the rules and regulations pertaining to the possession of firearms while flying in order to avoid conflict.